Head up to this 14th-century hilltop castle at Via Canonico Giovanni Spano for panoramic views over Cagliari and the gulf. Check opening times in summer as midday heat can close the terrace.

Look for a trattoria along Via Santa Croce or Piazza Arsenale and order Malloreddus alla Campidanese, a Sardinian semolina pasta with saffron, sausage and tomato sauce.

Visit this 13th-century cathedral in Piazza Palazzo with its striking Baroque facade and the underground Martyrs Crypt lined with ancient stone carvings. Dress code applies for shoulders and knees.

Walk from Piazza Costituzione up the grand staircase to the panoramic terrace called Terrazza Umberto I. Arrive before sunset for golden light over the rooftops and the port.

Walk along Via Sardegna or Via Baylle near the port where casual spots serve fresh grilled fish and octopus. Order a local Vernaccia di Oristano white wine to pair with seafood.

Take ARST bus from Cagliari to Barumini (about 1 hour). Book the guided tour ticket in advance online during summer as entry is timed and sells out.

Take the 654 steps down to the cave entrance from Capo Caccia near Alghero. Bring a light jacket as it stays cool inside year round.

Find a gelateria along Via Carlo Alberto in Alghero old town. Look for artigianale signs and order pistachio or lemon sorbetto.

Head to the Bastioni Marco Polo along Alghero's sea wall. Grab a Spritz or a local Ichnusa beer from a nearby bar and sit on the rocks facing the sea.

Head to Porto Cervo the main hub of Costa Smeralda. Walk the Piazzetta and the marina to see the whitewashed luxury boutiques and yachts. Then drive or take a taxi to Capriccioli Beach for clear turquoise water and granite rock formations.

Take a ferry from Palau to La Maddalena island (€20 round trip, runs frequently). Rent a scooter or bike to reach Cala Coticcio and Spiaggia del Cavaliere. Pack swimwear and bring water shoes for the rocky coves.

Photo: Kaio Murilo, Pexels

Located in Stintino about 1 hour drive from Palau. Arrive by 3 PM to secure entry (limited capacity in summer). The white sand and shallow crystal water make it one of Sardinia's best beaches. Bring an umbrella as shade is scarce.

Photo: Edoardo Colombo, Pexels

Search for 'rooftop bars Porto Cervo' or head to the Porto Cervo Marina area where multiple hotel rooftops offer sunset drinks. Try a Vernaccia di Oristano white wine or a local Mirto digestif. Reservations recommended for prime sunset seating.

Reach Cala Luna by boat from Cala Gonone port or via a 45-minute hike from Cala Fuili. The beach is famous for its white pebbles, turquoise water, and sea caves you can explore.

Photo: Christopher Politano, Pexels

Accessible only by boat or a challenging 1-hour hike from the Golgo plateau. Arrive early to secure a spot on this small pebble beach with the iconic limestone pinnacle towering above it.

Photo: Pixabay, Pexels

Hop on a public or private boat from Cala Gonone port that cruises along the Gulf of Orosei, stopping at coves like Cala Mariolu, Cala Biriola, and Cala Sisine for swimming breaks.

Walk along Via Lungomare Palmasera in Cala Gonone and pick a restaurant with outdoor terrace seating. Look for spaghetti with bottarga or fresh grilled fish of the day.

Take a ferry from Stintino (mid-June to September only, book ahead at the tourist port). Once inside, join a guided 4x4 or bike tour to see the albino donkeys, abandoned penal colony, and turquoise coves like Cala d'Oliva. Bring water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes.

Head to La Pelosa Beach just south of Stintino on the way back. Its shallow crystalline water and fine white sand make for a classic final Sardinian swim before heading into town.

Look for a restaurant on Via Sassari or near Piazza dei Cantoni in Stintino and order fregola con arselle (Sardinian semolina pasta with clams) or a mixed grilled fish platter. Pair with a glass of Vernaccia di Oristano to finish the trip.